Briefs, February 12, 2013

Tibetans in the region around Xiahe, Gansu province, which has been a focus of self-immolation protests against Beijing's rule, marked a low-key Tibetan New Year yesterday, with many saying celebrations were inappropriate while the burnings continued. The Tibetan New Year is supposed to be a time for celebration, but many Tibetans in Xiahe said there would be no entertainment this year. "It really isn't appropriate because of the self-immolations. So we're not marking the new year," said a Tibetan man who gave his name as Dorje. Reuters

The Guangzhou city government's decision to save money and cut air pollution by not holding a Lunar New Year's Day fireworks show for the first time in 19 years drew a mixed response from residents, the Southern Metropolis Daily reports. Some said the change was a step towards a more environmentally friendly holiday, but others said they were disappointed it was cancelled. Stephen Chen